The Liberating Power of Play (with special guest Nicole Thompson)

Friendless

In this very special episode of "Friendless," host James Avramenko sits down with the dynamic Nicole Thompson—psychotherapist, pleasure activist, and host of Modern Anarchy—for a wide-ranging conversation on the intersections of pleasure, relationships, and personal liberation.

James and Nicole dive into the journey from purity culture (with some wild stories of abstinence-only sex ed), through Nicole’s awakening as a queer, relationship anarchist, all the way into the liberatory practices of pleasure, polyamory, and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Listeners get a candid look at what it means to unlearn shame, identify desires, and step fully into personal power within relationships of all kinds.

Key topics explored include:

• Breaking free from purity culture and reclaiming sexuality
• Tools for overcoming shame and practicing authentic, empowered communication
• Polyamory and relationship anarchy: defining boundaries, building community, and the importance of context and accountability in connection
• The role of psychedelics in trauma healing and pleasure, and the significance of set, setting, and integration
• The psychological and nervous system benefits of BDSM, kink, and the art of embodiment
• Practical ways to build supportive communities rooted in accountability, care, and ritual

Whether you’re curious about expanding your relationship models, integrating radical self-acceptance, or finding pleasure in your everyday life, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom and Nicole’s infectious joy for helping others step into their fullest selves.

Dive deeper into Nicole’s resources:

• Modern Anarchy Podcast and free educational offerings

If you’re ready to throw out the rulebook, explore the intersections of love, sex, and self-discovery, or just want some actionable steps to feel more pleasure and friendship in your week—this episode is your invitation.

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